The World Health Organization (WHO) has added SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen to its Model List of Essential Medicines for people with albinism. Announced on September 5, 2025, this decision officially recognizes sunscreen as a life-saving product.
People with albinism are born without melanin, the natural pigment that protects skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. This makes their skin highly vulnerable to sun damage and places them at an extremely high risk of skin cancer up to 1,000 times higher than the general population. Many already show signs of severe skin damage by their twenties.
Muluka-Anne Miti-Drummond, the UN Independent Expert on the enjoyment of human rights by persons with albinism, called the decision “transformational, impactful, and a game changer.” She explained that the campaign to include sunscreen began in 2024, backed by scientific data and global advocacy.
“This milestone was made possible thanks to the tireless support of governments, scientists, activists, NGOs, and people with albinism worldwide,” said Miti-Drummond.
Access to sunscreen has long been a challenge, with high costs and limited availability in public health facilities. With this new classification, governments are expected to make sunscreen widely accessible and affordable, particularly in regions with strong sun exposure.
The WHO Expert Committee reviewed the evidence and approved the addition in May 2025 during its Geneva meeting. Organizations including the Global Albinism Alliance, Africa Albinism Network, Standing Voice, and Human Rights Watch played key roles in supporting the initiative, highlighting the daily struggles faced by people with albinism.
By officially recognizing sunscreen as an essential medicine, the WHO has taken a vital step in protecting the health and rights of people with albinism, giving them a simple but life-saving tool against skin cancer.
